Tea-party favorite Bachmann heading to N.H.

Rep. Michele Bachmann, the tea-party movement favorite, is “leaving her options open” about running for president in 2012, according to an aide. But the Minnesota Republican is already acting like a candidate, heading to early presidential-primary state New Hampshire on March 12 for a party fundraiser.

Bachmann, who gave the tea party response to President Barack Obama’s January State of the Union speech, will speak at a New Hampshire Republican Party brunch on the 12th in Nashua, N.H.

New Hampshire holds one of the earliest primaries of the presidential sweepstakes, and candidates with their eyes on the White House typically invest time in the Granite State.

Bachmann would join a crowded GOP field if she decides to make a run for the White House. Potential Republican contenders include former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour, former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum and Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich is also expected to announce this week whether he’ll seek the nomination.

Bachmann aide Andy Parrish said that the congresswoman accepted an invitation to speak at the event, where VIP tickets are going for $100. General seating is $35.

– Robert Schroeder

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